Packers Star Aaron Jones from Dallas: Donates and Offers Heartfelt Condolences to Families of ICE Shooting Victims

Dallas, TX – September 25, 2025

In a profoundly moving act that transcends the football field, Green Bay Packers running back Aaron Jones, a proud Dallas native, has stepped up to support the families devastated by yesterday’s tragic shooting at the Dallas ICE facility. The NFL star announced a personal donation of $25,000 to aid the victims’ loved ones, transforming grief into action as the city reels from the violence that claimed two lives and left two others critically injured. “Dallas is my home, and when it hurts, I hurt,” Jones said in an emotional statement. “This tragedy reminds us that life is too short for hatred—let’s build bridges, not walls, and lift each other up. True strength isn’t measured by yards run, but by hearts mended.”

From Dallas Roots to NFL Heights

Aaron Jones’ story is one of resilience and relentless effort. Born and raised in Dallas, Texas, the 30-year-old attended Burges High School before shining at the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP), where he amassed over 4,100 rushing yards and 30 touchdowns. Selected by the Green Bay Packers in the fifth round of the 2017 NFL Draft, Jones has emerged as one of the NFL’s top running backs, with 5,940 rushing yards and 45 touchdowns through the 2023 season. In the Packers’ 28-20 loss to the Panthers in Week 2 of 2025, he still made his mark with 65 rushing yards and a touchdown, solidifying his role as a cornerstone of Green Bay’s offense.

But Jones’ connection to Dallas runs deeper than statistics. “Growing up in Dallas, I saw communities come together after tough times,” he shared. “Football taught me resilience, but life’s real lessons come from giving back. As I said after a big win, ‘Yards are temporary, but impact lasts forever.’ This donation is my way of honoring that truth.”

The Donation: A Symbol of Solidarity

Jones’ $25,000 contribution, announced via an emotional Instagram post reaching 180,000 followers, will go directly to a fund established by the Dallas Police Foundation for the victims’ families. The shooting, which unfolded around 6:40 AM on September 24 at the ICE facility on North Stemmons Freeway, saw a gunman open fire on detainees, killing two and injuring two others before taking his own life. FBI Director Kash Patel described it as a “targeted ideological attack,” with anti-ICE messages found on unused ammunition.

“Twenty-five thousand dollars isn’t a fortune, but it’s a start—enough to cover immediate needs like medical bills or funeral costs,” Jones explained. “I’ve been blessed with this platform, and it’s my duty to use it wisely. Remember, success isn’t about the spotlight; it’s about shining it on those who need it most. In times like these, we must choose empathy over anger, unity over division.”

The fund, which has already raised over $50,000 from local donors, aims to provide long-term support, including counseling and educational aid for the victims’ children. Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson praised Jones’ gesture: “Aaron is a true Texan—his heart is as big as this state. His donation shows sports can heal what politics divides.”

Jones’ Philosophy: Football as a Force for Good

Jones’ words carry the weight of a man who’s experienced football’s dual edges—glory on the field, humility off it. “I’ve learned that yards rushed don’t define you; it’s the lives you touch that do,” he said, echoing a mantra from his Green Bay days. “This tragedy in my hometown hits hard, but it’s a call to action. Let’s honor the fallen by building better futures—because in the end, we’re all playing for the same team: Team Humanity.”

His philosophy resonates with Packers fans, who have spread #JonesGivesBack across X, sharing stories of Jones’ quiet acts, like mentoring youth in Green Bay. As the Packers (1-1) prepare for Week 3 against the Colts, Jones’ off-field leadership could inspire a turnaround, much like his explosive runs.

Community Response and Broader Impact

Jones’ donation has sparked a wave of support, with teammates like Jordan Love contributing $10,000 and Christian Watson pledging matching funds. “Aaron’s heart is as big as his game,” Love posted on X. The move highlights the NFL’s growing role in crisis response, especially in Texas, where three ICE-related attacks have occurred in 2025.

For Jones, it’s personal. “Dallas shaped me—its people, its pain, its pride,” he added. “Football taught me to break through defenses, but life teaches you to build futures together. Let’s turn this loss into a legacy of love.”